Very timely Todd.
In April 2011 my doctor shared my blood test results and shook her finger at me. It was scary, so I listened to and heeded her words. Her key advice was to watch out for calories, fats, and sugars while at the same time giving my body a reasonable and sustainable exercise routine.
Over the next six weeks I went from 186lbs to 150lbs and it was not that hard. I did exactly what Todd mentions, educating myself on foods, their effects, and watching everything I ate. It is stunningly amazing at how much weight was lost and how much better I feel with a simple combination of education, nutrition, and exercise.
There is something else that has come from exercise that was unexpected. I force myself to exercise at least 30-45 minutes every day. I do not watch or listen to TV, radio, ipod, etc. during exercise. Instead, I focus on a problem(s) and let my brain go. It may sound goofy but it works. I believe the combination of a singular mental focus and the endorphins allows my brain to work better.
Can one eat healty at a fast food joint? Yep. Most all now have salads. It may not be as exciting as a double chili-cheeseburger with chili-cheese fries, but I sure as heck feel better for the rest of the day. One still needs to watch out for all of that extra stuff that packs in the calories and fat. Some of those restraunt salads are 1500+ calories.
Here's the real kicker. It is less expensive to eat healty. By watching the local grocery store adds for specials I can mix up the diet to suit. It gives the taste buds a change, keeps costs way down, and allows for more important fiscal needs to be met (car parts!).
Yes, loosing weight does help at the track. Dealing with heat is easier, I fit in the seat better, and I can wear the new Hollywood suit without laying on the bed to put it on.
There's another common theme going on here. A support system. Todd has Kelli. I have my wife Kris. She's on board not only because she loves me, but she understands that keeping my health in check is the best way for me to be a good father and husband. Is there anything more important that that?
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